Hollywood biopics that are worth adding to your watchlist
Traditional biopics often unfold chronologically, mapping out a person's life from birth to death. However, a bold few choose to defy this narrative structure. These films embrace non-linear storytelling, providing innovative insights into their subjects' multifaceted lives and enduring impacts. This article spotlights five such biopics that reject a linear approach in favor of a more complex, engaging portrayal of their protagonists' stories.
'I'm Not There'
I'm Not There (2007) is an unconventional biopic that explores Bob Dylan's life. It employs six actors, including Cate Blanchett, to portray various facets of Dylan's changing persona, mirroring the evolution of his music and identity. Abandoning a traditional narrative arc, the film unfolds through a tapestry of vignettes that collectively distill the essence of Dylan's enigmatic character and enduring influence.
'The Imitation Game'
While The Imitation Game (2014) might seem linear at first glance, it cleverly interweaves Alan Turing's past, present, and future to shed light on the man behind the genius. Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Turing reveals his pivotal role in World War II and his tragic personal life through flashbacks and flash-forwards that enrich the central storyline.
'Julie & Julia'
Julie & Julia (2009) seamlessly weaves together the stories of two women united by their love for cooking. Meryl Streep embodies Julia Child, while Amy Adams plays Julie Powell. Their narratives, though set in different eras, run in tandem. The film gracefully shifts from Julia's culinary adventures after the war to Julie's contemporary quest to re-create those recipes, fostering an engaging cross-temporal conversation.
'Love & Mercy'
Diving into the troubled mind of Beach Boys' frontman Brian Wilson, Love & Mercy (2014) juxtaposes two distinct periods of Wilson's life. Paul Dano and John Cusack play younger and older versions of Wilson respectively. They portray his creative zenith in the 1960s alongside his struggle with mental health issues in the 1980s. This dual narrative offers a profound look at genius and vulnerability.
'Citizen Kane'
Orson Welles' masterpiece Citizen Kane (1941) is often cited as one of cinema's greatest films for many reasons, including its revolutionary nonlinear narrative. Through flashbacks from multiple perspectives following newspaper tycoon Charles Foster Kane's death, the film pieces together the enigma of his life like a jigsaw puzzle. It's a film you just can't miss out on!